A RECRUITMENT drive to find more foster parents in the Wee County continues with an event as the local authority looks to bring costs down.

Clackmannanshire Council is looking for extraordinary people to do an extraordinary job and care for local young people and is holding an information event for prospective carers next week.

The local authority, which used to have the highest number of youngsters looked after away from home in Scotland – and accordingly the highest spend, has already driven costs down as reported following a recent meeting.

However, more is being done to encourage people with the aim of recruiting up to 50 carers over the next five years.

People of all backgrounds are being sought, they could be married, single or same sex couples, all that is needed is at least one spare room in their own or rented property, patience, empathy, motivation, commitment and a good sense of humour.

Anyone interested can head along to the drop-in information event, which will be held at Alloa Family Centre on East Castle Street this Friday, October 12, between 10am and 12noon.

Celia Gray, head of social services, said in a previous appeal: "Sadly some families experience difficulties in the challenges of parenting their children, and there is a growing need across Scotland for more foster carers and adopters that can offer various kinds of care placements to vulnerable children.

"This can vary from short respite breaks to adoption or offering a young adult a supported environment before they step out to the world on their own.

"In Clackmannanshire we are committed to recruiting, supporting and developing our carers so they can care for these children – foster carers and adopters are ordinary people doing an extraordinary job, and we look forward to hearing from people and explaining more about the opportunities available."

The council is also hoping to hear from existing carers to offer training opportunities, support, competitive fees and allowances.

Foster parents are also promised preparatory groups, ongoing support and advice is available and there will be opportunities to meet other foster carers regularly and hear about the rewards and challenges fostering offers.

Anyone looking for more information can also email fosteradopt@clacks.gov.uk or call 01259 225 085.